Combination non-lethal projectile launcher and flash light

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for firing a non-lethal projectile comprises a body with an internal cavity. A light source may be disposed in the cavity to illuminate an area outside the body. A firing mechanism may also be provided to cause a projectile to be propelled through the body.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a flash light with a projectile launchingmechanism and particularly to a mechanism capable of launchingnon-lethal projectiles. The invention also relates to a valvearrangement for use with compressed gas guns.

BACKGROUND

Law enforcement personnel and security guards often carry immobilizingdevices, such as pepper spray, tear gas or firearms. Individuals alsoemploy these types of devices to protect against an attacker oraggressive animal. In dark conditions, it is desirable to carry aportable light, such as a flash light, to illuminate the surroundings.Since the simultaneous use of a flash light and immobilizing devicerequires both hands, this can become unmanageable when the user needs afree hand for another task.

Lighting devices that mount to lethal firearms are well known. Thesedevices allow the use of a firearm and lighting device with a singlehand. However, such devices are bulky when mounted to the firearm.Moreover, the lighting device must be separately carried when notmounted.

In many cases, law enforcement and other individuals use non-lethalguns, such as for crowd control. For example, marking guns (commonlyknown as paintball markers) typically use compressed gas to propelfrangible projectiles. Typically, these projectiles are filled with amarking material and/or an immobilizing material, similar to pepperspray.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,742,512 to Ho et al. describes a paintball marker with alighting device that mounts to the hopper of the marker. As with othermounting assemblies for lighting devices, the marker described in Ho etal. is bulky. For example, law enforcement personnel would be unable toholster the marker with the lighting device attached. Moreover, themounting assembly would not be appropriate for non-lethal guns that donot have a hopper.

Therefore, there exists a need for a lighting device that is integral toan immobilizing device.

SUMMARY

An apparatus for firing non-lethal projectiles in accordance with oneaspect of the invention comprises a grip portion defining a grip axisalong a longitudinal axis of the grip portion. A front portion isprovided that defines a bore therethrough. The bore defines a barrelaxis along a longitudinal axis of the bore, such that the grip axis andthe barrel axis are substantially parallel. The apparatus also includesa firing mechanism operable to cause a projectile to be propelledthrough the bore.

In some exemplary embodiments, the grip axis is aligned with the barrelaxis. The grip portion may be constructed such that the grip portion hasa smaller cross-sectional area than the front portion. Typically, thegrip portion is generally cylindrical in shape. Embodiments are alsocontemplated in which the grip portion may have an oblong cross section.

In some exemplary embodiments, the firing mechanism may include atrigger. For example, the trigger may have a longitudinal axis that isapproximately parallel to the barrel axis. In other embodiments, thetrigger may be movable with respect to the front portion along an axisthat is approximately perpendicular to the barrel axis. Typically, thetrigger is a push button.

The apparatus may be constructed with a safety that is movable between asafe position and a fire position. In the safe position, the safetycovers access to the trigger. In the fire position, the safety allowsaccess to the trigger.

Depending on the exigencies of a particular application, the apparatusmay include a light source adapted to illuminate an area extending awayfrom the front portion. For example, the light source may be constructedfrom at least one light emitting diode. In other examples, the apparatusmay have a light switch operable to cause the light source toilluminate, such that the light switch is disposed on the grip portionwhere a user can actuate the light switch using a hand that is graspingthe grip portion. In some cases, the light switch may be a slide switch.In such embodiments, the light switch may be movable along an axis thatis approximately parallel to the barrel axis. Typically, the lightswitch is proximate to a trigger such that a user can actuate the lightswitch and the trigger using a hand that is grasping the grip. In someembodiments, the apparatus may also include an aiming mechanism, such asa laser pointer, integrally formed in the front portion.

According to another aspect, the invention provides an apparatus forfiring a non-lethal projectile comprising a body with a grip portion anda front portion, in which the body defines an internal cavity. A lightsource may be disposed in the cavity to illuminate an area outside thebody. A firing mechanism may also be provided to cause a projectile tobe propelled through the front portion.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front portion includes a transversefront face through which the projectile exits and light is projected.The apparatus may be constructed with a light switch integrally formedon the body. In some such embodiments, the light switch may be proximateto the grip portion such that a user can actuate the light switch usinga hand that is grasping the grip portion.

In other examples, the apparatus may include an aiming mechanismdisposed in the cavity. For example, the aiming mechanism may project alaser beam through the front face. Embodiments are also contemplated inwhich the body is generally cylindrical in shape.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides an apparatus forfiring a frangible projectile. The apparatus includes a body shaped toresemble a flash light. A light source is disposed in a cavity in thebody, such that the light source is adapted to project light out of thebody. A firing mechanism may also be provided to cause a frangibleprojectile to be propelled out of the body.

In some examples, a light switch and a trigger may be provided. In suchembodiments, the light switch may be movable with respect to the bodywith a thumb while holding the body. The trigger may be also movablewith respect to the body with an index finger while holding the body.

A still further aspect of the present invention is achieved by a flashlight with a generally cylindrical body. The flash light includes alight source disposed in the body, such that the light source isoperable to project light out of the body. A firing mechanism may alsobe provided to cause a non-lethal projectile to be propelled out of thebody.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flash light may include a valvearrangement disposed in the body. For example, the valve arrangement mayselectively open and close fluid communication between a source ofcompressed gas and the firing mechanism. In some cases, the flash lightmay include a canister of compressed gas disposed in the body that is influid communication with the firing mechanism. The flash light may beconstructed with a magazine disposed in the body.

In other examples, the flash light may include a safety associated withthe firing mechanism, such that the safety moves along an axis that isapproximately parallel with a longitudinal axis of the body. The bodymay include a bulge to which the safety is slidably coupled. In somecases, the safety may have an arcuate shape.

According to another aspect, the invention provides an apparatus forfiring a non-lethal projectile, the apparatus having a barrel, firingmechanism and inlet valve. The firing mechanism may include a pistondisposed in a chamber, such that the piston is movable between a firstposition that prevents fluid communication and a second position thatallows fluid communication. The inlet valve is movable between an openposition that provides fluid communication between the chamber and asource of compressed gas and a closed position that prevents fluidcommunication between the chamber and the source of compressed gas. Theinlet valve moves to the closed position responsive to movement of thepiston from the first position to the second position.

In some exemplary embodiments, the piston is configured to move from thefirst position to the second position when a pressure within the chamberexceeds a predetermined pressure. For example, a spring may urge thepiston toward the first position when the chamber reaches thepredetermined pressure. Depending on the application, the inlet valvemay be a Schrader valve.

Another aspect of the present invention is achieved by a valvearrangement that includes a body, a first valve and a second valve. Thebody defines a passageway between an inlet port and an outlet port. Thefirst valve may move between a first position that allows fluidcommunication between the inlet port and the outlet port and a secondposition that prevents fluid communication between the inlet port andthe outlet port. When the pressure within the passageway exceeds apredetermined pressure, the first valve moves to the first position.Likewise, the first valve moves to the second position when the pressurewithin the passageway is less than the predetermined pressure.

According to another aspect, the invention provides a method ofpropelling a non-lethal projectile. An inlet valve in fluidcommunication between a supply of compressed gas and a chamber isprovided. The inlet valve is opened responsive to actuation of atrigger. The flow of the compressed gas is prevented from exiting thechamber until a pressure within the chamber reaches a predeterminedpressure. When the pressure within the chamber reaches the predeterminedpressure, the compressed gas is allowed to escape the chamber to propela projectile.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparentto those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detaileddescriptions exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention aspresently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be described hereafter with reference to theattached drawings which are given as non-limiting examples only, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a right side perspective view of an example device inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a left side perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is the view of FIG. 2, with the magazine partially inserted andthe safety having a partially cutaway;

FIG. 4 is a left side view of the device of FIG. 1 with the safety inthe safe position;

FIG. 5 is a left side view of the device of FIG. 1 with the safety inthe fire position and with partial cutaway section to reveal internalcomponents;

FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 prior toactuating the trigger;

FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 duringactuation of the trigger;

FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 showingthe ram held by a sear;

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 10 showingrelease of the ram by the sear;

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 prior toactuation of the trigger;

FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 duringactuation of the trigger;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1showing movement of the piston;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the device ofFIG. 1 showing the projectile being propelled from the barrel; and

FIG. 16 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the device ofFIG. 1 showing engagement of the cam by the piston.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The components in the Figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention. The exemplification set out hereinillustrates embodiments of the invention, and such exemplification isnot to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in anymanner.

DISCLOSURE OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

The present disclosure will be described hereafter with reference to theattached drawings which are given as non-limiting examples only, inwhich:

According to one aspect, the present invention provides a flash lightwith a projectile-launching mechanism. By the term “flash light,” it ismeant a portable device with a light source that may be selectivelyturned on/off to project a beam of light from the device. The lightsource continuously radiates light when turned on by the user, insteadof a brief flash of light, such as that emitted from a photographiclamp.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, the flash light 100 has a body 102. Theshape of the body 102 shown in the figures is for example purposes only.Although the body preferably resembles the shape of a typical flashlight, it should be appreciated that flash lights come in many differentshapes and sizes. The body 102 may be formed in any suitable shape orsize, whether the body 102 resembles a flash light or not. In thisexample, the body 102 has a front portion 104 and a rear portion 106. Asshown, the front and rear portions 104, 106 are generally cylindrical inshape. The longitudinal axis of the front and rear portions 104, 106 arealso along a generally common axis, as shown.

The body 102 may include a grip portion 108 that is disposed between thefront portion 104 and the rear portion 106. In the example shown, thegrip portion 108 has a generally cylindrical shape. In some embodiments,the grip portion 108 may have an oblong cross-section. This example alsoshows the grip portion 108 with a smaller diameter than the frontportion 104 and the rear portion 108. In such a configuration, the body102 may include a front sloped portion 110 to smoothly transitionbetween the front portion 104 and the grip portion 108. Likewise, thebody 102 may include a rear sloped portion 112 to smoothly transitionbetween the rear portion 106 and the grip portion 108.

It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to theparticular shape of the body 102 shown in FIG. 1, but this is providedfor example purposes only. For example, the grip portion 108 may have asimilar diameter or a larger diameter than the rear and front portions104, 106. By way of another example, the body 102 need not necessarilybe cylindrical, but could be spherical, conical, box shaped, or othershapes. Although the body 102 is shown as a two-piece construction, itshould be appreciated that the body 102 may be formed from a singlepiece or multiple pieces coupled together. Embodiments are alsocontemplated in which rear portion 106 may be optional.

In the example shown, the grip portion 108 includes optional surfaceornamentation 114. The surface ornamentation 114, in addition to havingan aesthetic aspect, tends to provide texture to facilitate grasping thegrip portion 108. Instead of the knob pattern shown, the grip portion108 may have a knurled surface, ridges, dimples or other surfaceornamentation.

The front portion 104 may include a transverse front face 116. As shown,the front face 116 is recessed with a peripheral lip 118. The front face116 defines openings for a light source 120 and a barrel 122 throughwhich projectiles are propelled. Preferably, the projectiles arepropelled out the barrel 122 in the same direction in which the lightsource 120 projects light. In some embodiments, the light source 120 maybe optional. The front face 116 may also define a hole for an optionalaiming mechanism 124. For example, the aiming mechanism 124 may be alaser. In such configurations, the laser would typically project a laserbeam on the surface in which the projectile would impact after firing.

In the example shown, the front face 116 also defines a hole for an endcap 126. The end cap 126 may be opened to allow access to a pressurizedcanister 702 (see FIGS. 7, 12 and 13) associated with the flash light100. It should be appreciated that access to the canister 702 may beformed on another part of the body 102, such as the rear, bottom, or topportions of the body 102.

In the example shown, the top of the body 102 includes a switch actuator128. The switch actuator 128 may be used as a light switch to turnon/off the light source 120 and/or the aiming mechanism 124. As shown,the switch actuator 128 is a slide switch, but the switch actuator 128could be a push button or other type of switch. By way of anotherexample, the light source 120 and/or aiming mechanism 124 may be turnedon/off by a switch that is actuated by twisting the front portion 104 orrear portion 106.

In the example shown, a bulge 130 is formed on the bottom portion of thebody 102. A trigger 304 is disposed in the bulge 130 but is covered by asafety 132 in FIG. 1. In a safe position, the safety 132 covers thetrigger 304 (see FIG. 6) to prevent accidental firing. The safety 132 ismovable to a fire position in which the safety does not prevent accessto the trigger 304. In the example shown, the safety 132 includes afinger tab 134 to ease engagement and movement of the safety 132 by theuser. An aperture 136 may be formed through the safety 132 and bulge130. A pin (not shown) may be placed through the aperture 136 to lockthe safety 132 in place. In this manner, the pin would need to beremoved to move safety 132 to the fire position and thereby provideaccess to the trigger 304 for firing. It should be appreciated thatother safety mechanisms that cover access and/or prevent movement of thetrigger may be suitable.

FIG. 2 shows a left perspective view of the flash light 100 shown inFIG. 1. The flash light may include an energy source to electricallypower the light source 120 and/or the aiming mechanism 124. It isanticipated that the energy source may be used for other components ofthe flash light 100. For example, the energy source may be used to loadand/or fire the projectiles, depending on the particular application. Inthis example, the flash light 100 includes a battery door 200 thatcloses a cavity to house the energy source, such as a battery (see FIGS.5 and 6). In the example shown, the battery door 200 includes anextension 202 with a hole 204 through which a fastener (not shown) mayengage a threaded bore 206 to secure the battery door 200 to the body102. Embodiments are contemplated in which the battery door 200 isoptional. For example, a rechargeable energy source, such as arechargeable battery or solar panel, may be formed integral to ordisposed in the body 102. For example, the flash light 100 may include aport (not shown) for recharging the energy source. By way of anotherexample, the energy source may be recharged wirelessly, such as by usingan electromagnetic signal.

The flash light 100 may include a magazine 210 to hold a plurality ofprojectiles (see FIGS. 5 and 6). In the example shown, the magazine 210may be accessed on the rear face 212 of the body 102. As shown, the endof the magazine 210 includes a ridge 211 that a user may twist to removethe magazine 210. Embodiments are contemplated other than the internalmagazine 210 shown. For example, the flash light 100 may include a portto feed projectiles from an external magazine or hopper.

Referring to FIG. 3, the magazine 210 is partially inserted into achannel formed in the body 102 of the flash light 100. In the exampleshown, the magazine 210 includes a detent 300 that engages a slot 302 tolock magazine with an interference fit. The detent 300 is dimensioned tobe received by the slot 302 such that engaging and twisting the magazinewith respect to the slot 302 locks the magazine 210 to the body 102. Itshould be appreciated that other locking mechanisms may be suitable todetachably lock the magazine 210 with respect to the body 102.Embodiments are also contemplated in which the magazine 210 is loadedinto another portion of the body, such as the front, top, or bottom.

Also visible in FIG. 3 is the trigger 304. In the example shown, thetrigger 304 is a push button that is actuated about an axis that isgenerally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 102. Thesafety 132 may be moved rearwardly to a safe position and therebyprevent access to the trigger (see FIGS. 1, 2 and 4). The safety 132 mayinclude internal ridges 306 that ride on a track 308 formed on the bulge130. In this manner, the safety 132 may slide forward to provide accessto the trigger 304, or may move rearwardly (FIGS. 1, 2 and 4) to preventaccess to the trigger 304. Although the safety 132 is arcuate in shapein the example shown, other shapes may also be suitable. As describedpreviously, a pin (not shown) may be passed through the aperture 136 tolock the safety 132 in the safe or fire position.

The movement of the safety 132 is illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6. InFIG. 4, the safety 132 is in a safe position, which prevents access tothe trigger 304. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the safety 132 is slid forward to thefire position, thereby revealing and providing access to the trigger304.

Also visible in FIGS. 5 and 6 is the energy source 500. Although abattery 502 is shown in FIG. 5 as the example energy source, it shouldbe appreciated that various types of devices for storing electricalenergy could be used, as discussed previously.

FIG. 5 includes a partial cutaway of the rear portion 106 of the body102 to reveal the internal components of the magazine 210. In theexample shown, the magazine includes an open end 504 through whichprojectiles 506 feed into the firing mechanism (not shown in FIG. 5). Apusher 508 is positioned within the magazine 210 behind the lastprojectile to be fed into the firing mechanism. In conjunction with aspring 510, the pusher 508 urges the projectiles 506 toward the firingmechanism. The magazine 210 shown herein is provided for purposes ofexample only. Other magazines, including mechanical and electricalactuators, are also contemplated to feed the projectiles 506 into thefiring chamber.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a side view of an example light source 120. In thisexample, the light source 120 includes a plurality of LEDs 600. In otherexamples, the light source may be one or more incandescent lamps, highintensity lamps, xenon lamps, halogen lamps or krypton lamps. The switchactuator 128 works in conjunction with a switch 602 to turn on/off thelight source 120 and/or the aiming mechanism 124. In the example shown,the switch 602 has three positions. In a first position, both the lightsource 120 and the aiming mechanism 124 are off. In a second position,the switch 602 turns on the light source 120, but not the aimingmechanism 124. In a third position, both the light source 120 and theaiming mechanism 124 are turned on. It should be appreciated that theaiming mechanism 124 may be independently turned on/off using the switch602 and/or another switch (not shown) associated with the flash light100.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the flash light 100 to revealelements of a valve arrangement and firing mechanism. The flash light100 includes a channel 700 in which a canister with compressed gas 702,a rod 704, a ram 706 and the end cap 126 are disposed. As previouslydiscussed, the end cap 126 may be removed to provide access to thecanister 702. In the example shown, the end cap has external threads 708that threadably engage internal threads 710 formed on the channel 700.The user may unscrew the end cap using wings 712. Alternatively, theuser may unscrew the end cap 126 by engaging the keyed bore 714 using atool, such as a hex wrench. With the end cap 126 unscrewed, the rod 704and ram 706 may be removed from the channel 700 to provide access to thecanister 702. This allows the canister 702 to be removed for refillingand/or replacement by another canister. It should be appreciated thatthe end cap may be connected to the body 102 through means other thanthreadable engagement. For example, an interference fit, frictional fit,or other connection may be suitable.

In the example shown, the end cap includes an internal bore 716 thatreceives a tip 718 of the rod 704. The opposing end of the rod includesan engaging portion 720 that contacts an end 722 of the canister 702.

The ram 706 is slidably disposed in the channel 700. The ram 706includes a hole dimensioned to receive the rod 704. As described below,the ram 706 may ride on the rod 704 between a first position shown inFIG. 7 and a second position shown in FIG. 13. The ram 706 may include acavity 724 that has a complementary shape to receive the end 722 of thecanister 702 when the ram 706 is in the position shown in FIG. 13.

The canister 702 may hold a volume of compressed gas, such as carbondioxide or nitrogen. In the example shown, the canister 702 has a slopedneck 726 that terminates in a mouth 728. Typically, the mouth 728 isinitially covered with a seal, such as a foil, to prevent escape ofcompressed gas from the canister 702. As shown, the mouth 728 abuts aseal 730 to prevent escape of gas into the channel 700. Instead of thearrangement shown in FIG. 7, the channel 700 may be configured to hold avolume of compressed gas. In such a configuration, the body 102 mayinclude a port to fill the channel 700 with compressed gas. In such aconfiguration, the canister 702, rod 704, ram 706 and end cap 126 may beoptional.

A reserve chamber 732 is adjacent to the mouth 728 of the canister 702.A wall 734 is disposed between the reserve chamber 732 and the channel700. The wall 734 includes grooves for a seal 736 to prevent escape ofgas from the reserve chamber 732 to the channel 700. The wall 734 isslidably disposed to allow movement of the mouth 728 towards a piercingpin 738. The piercing pin includes a tip 740 that is sufficiently sharpto pierce the seal initially covering the mouth 728 of the canister 702,thereby releasing compressed gas into the reserve chamber 732. A spring742 urges the wall 734 toward the canister, thereby retaining thecanister 702 between the wall 734 and the engaging portion 720 of therod 704. As discussed below, the ram is urged by a spring 744 toward thecanister 702. When released by a sear 818 (see FIGS. 10 and 11), thespring 744 moves the ram 706 to impact the end 722 of the canister 702.This moves the canister 702 and wall 734 so that the tip 740 of thepiercing pin 738 pierces the foil covering the mouth 728 of the canister702 (see FIG. 13).

An inlet valve 746 is positioned between the reserve chamber 732 and afirst chamber 748. In the example shown, the inlet valve 746 is aSchrader valve; however, other suitable valves may be used toselectively open/close fluid communication between the reserve chamber732 and the first chamber 748. A valve engaging pin 750 has an endcapable of engaging the inlet valve 746. When the valve engaging pin 750engages the valve 746, this causes the inlet valve 746 to open (see FIG.12), thereby allowing fluid communication between the first chamber 748and the reserve chamber 732. When the valve engaging pin 750 does notengage the inlet valve 746, no flow is allowed between the reservechamber 732 and the first chamber 748 (see also FIG. 11). In someembodiments, the valve engaging pin 750 may include a groove that allowsfluid communication between the first chamber 748 and the atmospherewhen the valve engaging pin does not engage the inlet valve 746. Thisallows the first chamber 448 to be safely vented to the atmosphere inthe event that inlet valve 746 develops a leak. The groove could bepositioned on the valve engaging pin 750 such that fluid communicationwith the atmosphere is only allowed when the valve engaging pin 750 doesnot engage the inlet valve 746. In this manner, there would not be aloss of pressure within the first chamber 748 when the valve engagingpin 750 engages the inlet valve 746. Seals 752 are provided between thefirst chamber 748 and the valve engaging pin 750 to prevent escape ofgas out of the first chamber 748. A lever 754 moves the valve engagingpin 750 between a position in which the valve engaging pin 750 engagesthe inlet valve 746 and a position in which the valve engaging pin 750does not engage the inlet valve 746. Actuation of the lever 754 will bedescribed below.

The first chamber 748 is in fluid communication with a second chamber756 through a passage 758. A stem 760 of a piston 762 is disposed withinthe second chamber 756. The piston 762 includes a leading end 764 and atip 766. The tip 766 includes a groove for a seal 768 to provide sealingcontact between the second chamber 756 and a third chamber 770. A spring772 is disposed between the leading end 764 of the piston 762 and a stop774. As described below, if the pressure within the second chamber 756rises to a predetermined level, the pressure differential between thesecond chamber 756 and a fourth chamber 775 will overcome the force ofthe spring 772 to move the piston 762. This movement causes the tip 766to move out of sealing engagement between the second chamber 756 and thethird chamber 770. Movement of the piston 762 is limited by theengagement of leading edge 764 with the stop 774. The piston 762 mayinclude grooves for seals 777 to prevent fluid communication between thesecond chamber 756 and the fourth chamber 775.

The tip 766 of the piston 762 is disposed within a bore formed in afunnel 776. A bolt 778 includes an outer portion 780 that surrounds thefunnel 776 and an inner portion 782 disposed within the funnel 776. Theouter portion 780 of the bolt 778 includes a flange 784 that engages aspring 786 to urge the bolt 778 into the position shown in FIG. 7.However, when the piston 762 moves out of sealing engagement between thesecond chamber 756 and third chamber 770, the pressure within the thirdchamber 770 overcomes the force of the spring 786 to move the bolt 778to the position shown in FIG. 15. This action pushes the projectile 506into the barrel 122 and the flow of gas propels the projectile 506 outof the barrel 122.

Referring now to FIG. 8, this is a cross-sectional view of the flashlight 100 to show, among other components, the trigger assembly. Thetrigger 304 includes a trigger pivot pin 800 that couples a triggeractuator 802 to the trigger 304. The trigger actuator 802 has a firstleg 804 and a second leg 806. The first leg 806 has an end with a holethat is dimensioned to receive the trigger pivot pin 800. The other endof the first leg 804 has a hole 810 to receive a pin 803. The second leg806 includes a first pivot 812 that is pivotably connected to an end ofa sear engager 814. The sear engager 814 includes a sear engagingportion 816 configured to disengage a sear 818 from the ram 706 (seeFIGS. 10-11).

The second leg 806 also includes a second pivot 820 coupled to anelongated link 822. The link 822 includes an opposing end with a ledge824 that engages the lever 754. Movement of the link 822 to the positionof FIG. 9 pushes the lever 754, which opens the inlet valve 746. Areturn spring 826 urges the link 822 against the lever 754.

A cam 828 is pivotably disposed on a pivot pin 830. The cam 828 has apiston engaging end 832 adjacent to the leading end 764 of the piston762. When the piston 762 moves out of sealing engagement between thesecond chamber 756 and a third chamber 770, the leading end 764 rotatescam 828 about the pivot pin 830, as described with respect to FIG. 16.The cam 828 also includes link engaging end 834 that moves the link 822out of engagement with the lever 754, when the cam 828 pivots due tomovement of the piston 762.

FIGS. 8-13 show the piercing of the canister 702 to release compressedgas into the reserve chamber 732. This typically occurs the first timethe trigger 304 is actuated after loading of the canister 702. As bestseen in FIG. 9, actuation of the trigger moves trigger actuator 802 topivot about pin 803. The pivoting of trigger actuator 802 moves both thesear engager 814 and the link 822 in the direction of arrow 900. Thiscauses the sear engaging portion 816 of the sear engager 814 todisengage the sear 818 from the ram 706 (as best seen in FIG. 11). Withthe ram 706 released from the sear 818, the spring 744 drives the ram706 into the end 722 of the canister 702. This impact moves the canister702 to a position where the mouth 728 engages the tip 766 of thepiercing pin 738 (see FIG. 13). Since the mouth 728 is surrounded by theseal 730, the movement of the canister 702 moves the spring loaded wall734. When the canister 702 is punctured by the piercing pin 738,compressed gas is released into the reserve chamber 732. Due to thespring loaded wall 734, the canister 702 will remain secured between thewall 734 and the engaging portion 720 of the rod 704. The pressure ofthe canister 702 within the reserve chamber 732 may apply force to thespring loaded wall 734 to further urge the spring loaded wall 734 intoengagement with the canister 734.

Movement of the link 822 in the direction of arrow 900 causes movementof the lever 754. The movement of the lever can be best seen in FIGS. 12and 13. The movement of the lever 754 pushes the valve-engaging pin 750into engagement with the inlet valve 746. This opens the inlet valve 746so that compressed gas in the reserve chamber 732 flows into the firstchamber 748. The gas also flows into the second chamber 756 via thepassage 758. The pressure in the second chamber 756 continues to builduntil the pressure differential between the second chamber 756 and thefourth chamber 775 is sufficiently great to overcome the force of thespring 772. The amount of pressure required to overcome the force of thespring depends on the spring force of the spring 772 and the amount ofexposed surface area 779 of the piston 762. The spring force of thespring 772 and the piston 762 may be designed so that the tip 766 movesout of sealing engagement at a predetermined pressure. This means thatthis arrangement regulates the pressure within the second chamber 756.Accordingly, a regulator often associated with a pressurized canistermay not be necessary. Additionally, the pressure with which theprojectile 506 is propelled can be controlled to be the same for eachshot until the pressure in the reserve chamber 732 is less than thepredetermined pressure.

When the pressure is sufficient within the second chamber 756 to movethe piston 762 out of sealing engagement between the second chamber 756and the third chamber 770, the gas flows into the third chamber 770, asshown in FIG. 14. The pressure of the gas in the third chamber 770 movesthe bolt 778 until the inner portion 782 clears a chamfered portion 781of the funnel 776. When the inner portion 782 of the bolt 778 movespassed the chamfered portion 781 of the funnel 776, the inner portion782 no longer seals the third chamber 770 from the barrel 122.Accordingly, the pressure of the compressed gas propels the projectile506 out of the barrel, as seen in FIG. 15.

After the projectile 506 is propelled through the barrel 122, thepressure within the second chamber 756 drops such that the pressuredifferential between the second chamber 756 and the fourth chamber 775equalizes. This allows the spring 772 to urge the tip 766 of the piston762 back into sealing engagement between the second chamber 756 and thethird chamber 770.

Referring now to FIG. 16, when the piston 762 moves out of sealingengagement, the leading end 764 pivots the cam 828 about the pivot pin830. This causes the link engaging end 834 of the cam 828 to disengagethe ledge 824 of the link 822 from the lever 754. This disengages thelever 754 from the valve engaging pin 750, which shuts off the inletvalve 746. When the trigger 304 is released, the return spring 826 urgesthe link 822 into engagement with the lever 754.

It should be appreciated that the valve arrangement and triggermechanism are suitable for use in any compressed gas gun, regardless ofthe particular shape or configuration of the body. Accordingly, thevalve arrangement and trigger mechanism could be employed in a deviceother than a flash light or a flash light-like device. For example, thevalve arrangement may be suitable for any paintball gun.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The exemplification set out hereinillustrates an embodiment of the invention, in one form, and suchexemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of theinvention in any manner.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference toparticular means, materials and embodiments, from the foregoingdescription, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essentialcharacteristics of the invention and various changes and modificationsmay be made to adapt the various uses and characteristics withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention.

1. An apparatus for firing non-lethal projectiles, said apparatuscomprising: a grip portion defining a grip axis extending longitudinallythrough said grip portion; a front portion having a barrel extendinglongitudinally therethrough, wherein said grip axis and said barrel aresubstantially parallel; and a firing mechanism operable to cause aprojectile to be propelled through said barrel.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein said grip axis is aligned with said barrel.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein said grip portion has a smallercross-sectional area than said front portion.
 4. The apparatus of claim1, wherein said grip portion is generally cylindrical in shape.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein said firing mechanism includes a triggerwith a longitudinal axis that is approximately parallel to said barrel.6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said firing mechanism includes atrigger and wherein said trigger is movable with respect to said frontportion along an axis that is approximately perpendicular to saidbarrel.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein said trigger is a pushbutton.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a safety movablebetween a safe position and a fire position, wherein said safety coversaccess to said trigger in said safe position, and wherein said safetyallows access to said trigger in said fire position.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a light source adapted to illuminate an areaoutside said front portion.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, furthercomprising a light switch operable to cause said light source toilluminate, wherein said light switch is disposed on said grip portionsuch that a user can actuate said light switch using a hand that isgrasping said grip portion.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein saidlight switch is a slide switch.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, whereinsaid light switch is movable along an axis that is approximatelyparallel to said barrel.
 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein saidfiring mechanism includes a trigger and wherein said light switch isproximate to said trigger such that a user can actuate said light switchand said trigger using a hand that is grasping said grip.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 13, wherein said light source is selected from thegroup consisting of at least one light emitting diode, at least oneincandescent lamp, at least one high intensity lamp, at least one xenonlamp, at least one halogen lamp and at least one krypton lamp.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 9, further comprising an aiming mechanism integrallyformed in said front portion, wherein said aiming mechanism is adaptedto direct a focused light source along an axis that is substantiallyparallel to said barrel.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein saidaiming mechanism is a laser pointer.
 17. An apparatus for firing anon-lethal projectile, said apparatus comprising: a body including agrip portion and a front portion, wherein said body defines an internalcavity; a light source disposed in said cavity, wherein said lightsource is adapted to illuminate an area outside said body; a firingmechanism operable to cause a projectile to be propelled out of saidbody; a source of compressed gas; and a valve arrangement configured toselectively provide fluid communication between said firing mechanismand said source of compressed gas.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17,wherein said front portion includes a transverse front face throughwhich the projectile exits said front portion and wherein said lightsource projects light through said front face.
 19. The apparatus ofclaim 18, further comprising a light switch integrally formed on saidbody, wherein said light switch is operable to turn on said lightsource.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said light switch isproximate to said grip portion such that a user can actuate said lightswitch using a hand that is grasping said grip portion.
 21. Theapparatus of claim 19, wherein said light switch is a slide switch. 22.The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said light switch is movable withrespect to said front portion along an axis that is approximatelyparallel to said barrel axis.
 23. The apparatus of claim 22, whereinsaid firing mechanism includes a trigger and wherein said light switchis proximate to said trigger such that a user can actuate said lightswitch and said trigger using a hand that is grasping said grip.
 24. Theapparatus of claim 17, wherein said light source includes at least onelight emitting diode.
 25. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprisingan aiming mechanism disposed in said cavity.
 26. The apparatus of claim25, wherein said aiming mechanism projects a laser beam through saidfront face.
 27. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said body isgenerally cylindrical in shape.
 28. An apparatus for firing a frangibleprojectile, said apparatus comprising: a body shaped to resemble a flashlight, said body defining an internal cavity; a light source disposed insaid cavity, wherein said light source is adapted to project light outof said body; and a firing mechanism operable to cause a frangibleprojectile to be propelled out of said body.
 29. The apparatus of claim28, further comprising a light switch operative to turn on said lightsource and a trigger associated with said firing mechanism, wherein saidlight switch is movable with respect to said body with a thumb whileholding said body.
 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said triggeris movable with respect to said body with an index finger while holdingsaid body.
 31. A flash light comprising: a generally cylindrical body; alight source disposed in said body, wherein said light source isoperable to project light out of said body; and a firing mechanismoperable to cause a non-lethal projectile to be propelled out of saidbody.
 32. The flash light of claim 31, further comprising a valvearrangement disposed in said body.
 33. The flash light of claim 32,wherein said valve arrangement selectively opens and closes fluidcommunication between a source of compressed gas and said firingmechanism.
 34. The flash light of claim 31, further comprising acanister of compressed gas disposed in said body, wherein said canisteris in fluid communication with said firing mechanism.
 35. The flashlight of claim 31, further comprising a magazine disposed in said body,wherein said magazine is configured to receive a plurality ofprojectiles.
 36. The flash light of claim 31, further comprising asafety associated with said firing mechanism, wherein said safety ismovable between a safe position and a fire position along an axis thatis approximately parallel with a longitudinal axis of said body.
 37. Theflash light of claim 36, further comprising a bulge protruding from saidbody, wherein said safety is slidably coupled to said bulge.
 38. Theflash light of claim 37, wherein at least a portion of said safety hasan arcuate shape.
 39. The flash light of claim 36, further comprising atrigger operatively associated with said firing mechanism, wherein saidsafety covers access to said trigger in said safe position.
 40. Theflash light of claim 39, further comprising a light switch operative toturn on said light source, wherein said light switch is disposed on anopposing side of said body than said trigger.
 41. An apparatus forfiring a non-lethal projectile, said apparatus comprising: a barrel; afiring mechanism including a piston disposed in a chamber, wherein saidpiston is movable between a first position and a second position, andwherein said piston prevents fluid communication between said chamberand said barrel in said first position and said piston allows fluidcommunication between said chamber and said barrel in said secondposition; an inlet valve movable between an open position that providesfluid communication between said chamber and a source of compressed gasand a closed position that prevents fluid communication between saidchamber and the source of compressed gas; and wherein said inlet valvemoves to said closed position responsive to movement of said piston fromsaid first position to said second position.
 42. The apparatus of claim41, wherein said piston is configured to move from said first positionto said second position when a pressure within said chamber exceeds apredetermined pressure.
 43. The apparatus of claim 41, furthercomprising a spring urging said piston toward said first position. 44.The apparatus of claim 43, wherein said spring has a spring forceselected to maintain said piston in said first position until a pressurewithin said chamber reaches a predetermined pressure.
 45. The apparatusof claim 41, wherein said inlet valve is a Schrader valve.
 46. Theapparatus of claim 41, further comprising a cam operatively connectedbetween said piston and said inlet valve, wherein said piston engagessaid cam when said piston moves from said first position to said secondposition.
 47. The apparatus of claim 46, further comprising a leveroperatively connected between said cam and said inlet valve, whereinsaid lever moves in a first direction responsive to movement of saidcam, and wherein said inlet valve moves to said closed positionresponsive to said lever moving in said first direction.
 48. Theapparatus of claim 47, wherein movement of said lever in a seconddirection causes said inlet valve to move to said open position.
 49. Theapparatus of claim 48, further comprising a trigger operativelyconnected to a link, wherein said link moves said lever in said seconddirection responsive to actuation of said trigger.
 50. The apparatus ofclaim 47, further comprising a pin operatively connected between saidlever and said inlet valve, wherein said pin moves in a third directionresponsive to movement of said lever in said first direction, andwherein said inlet valve moves to said closed position responsive tosaid pin moving in said third direction.
 51. A valve arrangementcomprising: a body defining a passageway between an inlet port and anoutlet port; a first valve movable between a first position that allowsfluid communication between said inlet port and said outlet port and asecond position that prevents fluid communication between said inletport and said outlet port, wherein said first valve moves to said firstposition when a pressure within said passageway exceeds a predeterminedpressure, and wherein said first valve moves to said second positionwhen the pressure within said passageway is less than a predeterminedpressure; a second valve in fluid communication between said inlet portand a source of compressed gas, wherein said second valve is movablebetween a third position that allows fluid communication between saidsource of compressed gas and said inlet port and a fourth position thatprevents fluid communication between said source of compressed gas andsaid inlet port; and wherein said second valve moves to said fourthposition responsive to said first valve moving to said first position.52. The valve arrangement of claim 51, wherein said first valve is apiston.
 53. The valve arrangement of claim 52, wherein said piston isdisposed in said passageway.
 54. The valve arrangement of claim 52,wherein said second valve is a Schrader valve.
 55. The valve arrangementof claim 51, further comprising a linkage mechanism operativelyconnected to said first valve.
 56. The valve arrangement of claim 55,wherein said linkage mechanism disengages said second valve when saidfirst valve moves from said second position to said first position. 57.A method of propelling a non-lethal projectile, said method comprising:providing an inlet valve in fluid communication between a supply ofcompressed gas and a chamber; opening said inlet valve responsive toactuation of a trigger; preventing flow of the compressed gas fromexiting said chamber until a pressure within said chamber reaches apredetermined pressure; and when the pressure within said chamberreaches the predetermined pressure, allowing the compressed gas toescape the chamber to propel a projectile.
 58. The method of claim 57,further comprising the step of closing said inlet valve responsive topressure within said chamber falling below the predetermined pressureafter propelling the projectile.
 59. An apparatus for firing a frangibleprojectile, said apparatus comprising: a body shaped to resemble a flashlight, said body defining a bore; a light source disposed in said bodyfor projecting light out of said body; a firing mechanism operable tocause a projectile to be propelled through said bore; where said firingmechanism includes a piston disposed in a chamber, wherein said pistonis movable between a first position and a second position, and whereinsaid piston prevents fluid communication between said chamber and saidbore in said first position and said piston allows fluid communicationbetween said chamber and said bore in said second position; an inletvalve movable between an open position that provides fluid communicationbetween said chamber and a source of compressed gas and a closedposition that prevents fluid communication between said chamber and thesource of compressed gas; and wherein said inlet valve moves to saidclosed position responsive to movement of said piston from said firstposition to said second position.